Karachi, October 24, 2023 – Furniture exporters have sought support from the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) to address the mounting concerns regarding an increasing number of raids conducted by Pakistan Customs.
Members of the All Pakistan Furniture Exporters Association (APFEA) have raised alarm about the escalating customs raids in furniture markets across Karachi, including a recent incident in the Nursery Furniture Market. They believe that these actions are tarnishing the reputation of legitimate shopkeepers and are calling for protection from undue harassment by customs authorities.
The APFEA members argue that customs authorities should consider alternative strategies for addressing issues without creating panic and protecting shopkeepers from embarrassment. They have approached the KCCI to intervene in the matter and help bring these ongoing raids under control.
During their meeting with KCCI, the APFEA delegation emphasized that during customs raids, hundreds of laborers are often engaged, and some have been implicated in theft of valuable items and cash from shops, taking advantage of the panic and confusion created during these operations. This not only adds to the losses incurred by already distressed shopkeepers but also hampers the overall business environment.
Rana Waheed, Chairman of APFEA, called on the KCCI to address the issue of customs raids as a matter of urgency. He praised the KCCI for its previous efforts, which resulted in the removal of the furniture industry from the Tier-I retailers’ category for sales tax collection.
Waheed emphasized that the furniture industry has substantial potential for growth and can boost furniture exports to reach $1 billion. However, realizing this potential requires creating a conducive business environment with a reduced cost of doing business, enabling the industry to compete effectively in international markets.
President of KCCI, Iftikhar Ahmed Sheikh, welcomed the APFEA delegation and pledged full support and cooperation in addressing various issues facing businessmen in the furniture industry. He promised to approach the Directorate of Intelligence and Investigation (DIT) to arrange a meeting to discuss and amicably resolve the issues surrounding customs raids. Sheikh also requested the APFEA to provide specific details of two to three cases where unjustified raids were conducted and nominate two representatives to join the meeting with DIT officials.
Sheikh advised shopkeepers to ensure the availability of Goods Declarations (GDs) for imported goods and Sales Tax invoices for locally manufactured goods, both at their business premises and during transit. This proactive approach will help protect businesses and their interests in case of any future raids.
He reaffirmed that KCCI is committed to serving the business community and is open to facilitating and assisting anyone facing challenges with various government departments. Sheikh urged APFEA members to actively participate in KCCI meetings and events by becoming part of subcommittees dedicated to resolving issues related to taxation, law and order, utilities, and more.
The meeting was attended by Senior Vice President Altaf A. Ghaffar, Vice President Tanveer Ahmed Barry, Former Vice President Younus Soomro, the KCCI Managing Committee, and members of the APFEA delegation. The KCCI stands ready to address the concerns of furniture exporters and create a conducive business environment for the industry’s growth.
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